Insulation acts as a thermal barrier to keep the inside of a home comfortable as outside temperatures change.
In new builds, ceiling insulation is usually completed before other trades start work in the roof space. When other trades subsequently enter the roof, they will often move ceiling segments around to install services. If those segments are not put back into place and gaps are left behind, the thermal barrier will have significantly reduced capacity to retain heat, as shown in the example below.
In this scenario, an air conditioning tradesman removed a ceiling batt to install an AC duct, but did not reseal the thermal barrier afterwards by fitting the batt around the duct.
They would first need to cut a circle in the batt the same diameter as the duct, then put the batt in place and ensure there are no gaps in the insulation.
To prevent thermal performance issues like this, it is essential that trades working in the roof space are given clear instructions about handling insulation and are supervised during the process.
Briefings should state the objectives of achieving thermal performance and highlight common errors such as the one outlined here.
